The Highwayman Hotel

We’d stay here again next time we’re nearby. The room was nicely equipped, the bed was comfortable, and the staff were friendly. Good food, too, and the hotel was great value.

We only came for a meal, not an overnight stay, and really enjoyed it. The portions were generous, prices reasonable, and the food delicious. Saturday evening had a friendly, relaxed feel and wasn’t busy. There’s a good-sized car park and pleasant outdoor space with direct canal access. It’s on the main road, so having a car is useful. There is a bus that I think runs hourly.

Will was brilliant behind the bar. He knew what the regulars wanted before they ordered and created a great atmosphere all on his own. Such a charismatic barman, with service to match. The rooms were clean and tidy, and surprisingly quiet despite being next to an airport. The hotel itself is a charming little place with lots of character. Well done, Will!

The rooms were clean and decent for the price, with a nice view over the canal from the pub garden. It’s also well placed for getting to Oxford. But our one-night stay was let down by the service. We got a rather abrupt handover of our rooms and were told to leave the key in the door when we left, without much of a welcome. We’d hoped to have lunch, but were told there was no chef and no food available during our stay. That can happen, but we should have been warned beforehand. We were directed to a pub down the road, though walking there felt dangerous because there was no path. Staff seemed inattentive and uninterested, often focused on their phones. A little more care toward guests would have made a big difference. I wouldn’t return.